BKC Solutions Corner

In the world of astronomy, different types of telescopes are used to view the stars and planets.  No surprise to practicing star gazers, it is the refracting and reflecting telescopes that reflect the two basic names of telescopes utilized by today’s novice and professional astronomers.   Of these two telescopes, the refracting telescope has centuries of use and has developed into one of the most reliable telescopes.   This telescopes origins can be traced back to the 15th century and is still a very popular telescope in the 21st century.  Actually, the refractor telescope is one of the oldest telescope designs still in use by today’s astronomers.

The Principles Behind a Refracting Telescope

The refracting telescope, also known as a refractor telscope, has multiple concave lenses which allow the incoming light to be refracted, providing for images that are more distinct and bigger.  These qualities give the appearance that the actual images appear much bigger than viewing with the naked eye.   These refractors gather the incoming light and bend it, allowing you to view objects from a distance.  This magnification is what provides you with the ability to clearly view the stars and night sky. Even though refracting telescopes look complicated, the fact is that they are just a series of concave lenses that refract the incoming light.

The Benefits of a Refracting Telescope

This telescope’s design has withstood the test of time, with numerous improvements and enhancements.   Over the centuries, its design was constantly tweaked, resulting in continuous improvement of its design and magnification abilities.  This was a real benefit, providing astronomers with the a chance to derive the refracting telescope design’s strengths and weaknesses.

This telescope design has been improved dramatically since the fifteenth century.  Even with the improvement of refractor technology, it is the size of the refractor telescope that still presents itself as the major concern.  With today’s requirements for ever increasing magnification, the size of the refractor lens must increase.  This can result in an expanded potential for defects or sagging.

The truth is that refracting telescopes have proven themselves across the centuries and, to attest to their value, have remained one of the most popular designs among astronomers.  Regardless of the type of telescope you choose to scan the cosmos, the ongoing use and popularity of the refractor telescope provides assurance that it will be with us for decades to come.

Buying a Refracting Telescope

We know that it can be a little confusing trying to decide on the best refracting telescope to purchase.  But what we found was that visiting telescope and astronomy websites that provide telescope reviews can be very helpful in making your decision.  So, whether you are considering a child telescope or professional model, be sure to do your research and you will be assured of enjoying many hours of star gazing pleasure.